Merlin

Exciting news! Merlin has been named one of Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies of 2025, showcasing our ongoing commitment to empowering independent music in the digital space. At the heart of this recognition is Merlin Connect, our streamlined licensing solution that's revolutionizing how emerging platforms connect with quality independent music. "Innovation at Merlin is about finding meaningful solutions for independent music and the broader digital ecosystem," said Jeremy Sirota, CEO. "Merlin Connect exemplifies our ability to break down long-standing industry barriers. By making independent music more accessible to platforms that wouldn’t otherwise be able to efficiently license it, we’re helping shape the future of music in tech." This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our amazing team. Most importantly, it reflects the innovative spirit and transformative impact our members and their artists have on the music industry. Full announcement: https://lnkd.in/eyEyY9z9 More info about Merlin Connect: https://lnkd.in/eVgp87sv #FCMostInnovative

🌟 We're incredibly proud to see Daniele Yandel, our Senior Manager of Member Operations, featured in Complete Music Update's Horizon Q&A series! This series shines a light on the future of the music industry, and Daniele is a perfect example. Starting by forming a band and then organically building a DIY record label to release their music, Daniele's journey exemplifies hands-on learning in the independent sector. This experience led her to mastering the intricacies of digital Rights Management Systems and Content Management Systems, directly enabling her to empower Merlin's members. Her insightful interview covers topics including: evolving revenue streams, mastering digital tools, and staying informed on industry trends to navigate the future. A huge congratulations to Daniele, and thanks to Complete Music Update for the feature! 🎉 Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eMryzmEQ

Merlin Board Member Marie Clausen (Managing Director, North America at Ninja Tune) shared her critical perspective on AI's impact on independent music with Music Business Worldwide. As Marie explains, "We have a choice to make. The culture that independent music brings is priceless – perhaps just start by paying what it’s worth." At Merlin, we believe that, when developed and implemented responsibly, AI technologies can be additive to the creative landscape. We are committed to working with AI companies that prioritize artist-first innovation and shaping policies that protect our members. Read Marie’s full perspective: https://lnkd.in/eMM5Tats

SXSW 2025 is finally here and Merlin and our members are Austin-bound! 🤘 Check out this fantastic lineup of executives and artists from across our membership speaking throughout the week. Featuring Better Noise Music , IDOL, Reservoir Media Management, Inc., CD Baby, Too Lost, ONErpm, Stem Disintermedia Inc., Beggars Group, Amuse, EMPIRE, VP MUSIC GROUP INC, and Ninja Tune.

Get ready! We're just days away from welcoming a new cohort of Merlin Engage mentors and mentees, empowering the next generation of female leaders in independent music. Prepare to meet the inspiring women joining the Engage community! #MerlinEngage #WomenInMusic #Leadership #Mentorship

Today at 4:00pm ET / 1:00pm PT, Merlin member Too Lost and partner Hangout will come together with MusiCares Foundation to host the Fire Benefit Hang. The event will feature sets from amazing artists like Lexi Klein, Nana, Andi, and Casey Veggies, all in support of LA fire relief efforts. 🔗 Join the Hang: 📲 On Discord: bit.ly/HangoutFMDiscord 💻 On Desktop: bit.ly/HangoutFMEvents 📱 On Mobile: go.hang.fm/m/Hangout

This week, our incredible Merlin Board kicked off 2025 with their first meeting in London 🇬🇧. Elected by and from our global membership, the Board provides crucial guidance, ensuring Merlin's objectives benefit all members! Visit our website to meet our Board. https://lnkd.in/ebA57wn5

Merlin is firmly against the UK Government's proposed changes to copyright laws regarding AI training. These changes would fundamentally alter the landscape for independent rightsholders, allowing AI developers to utilize copyrighted musical works without obtaining permission or providing fair compensation. This proposal, made without proper economic impact assessment, threatens the sustainability of the independent music sector and devalues human artistry. We have submitted a formal response to this consultation, urging the UK Government to require AI companies to seek explicit permission before using copyrighted works and to disclose training data sources. You can read our full statement in Music Week. https://lnkd.in/eTjKqtgp

Today, the music community mourns the loss of Horst Weidenmueller, a visionary leader whose influence and passion shaped the landscape of independent music. As the Founder & CEO of !K7 Music, Horst built an independent music company that championed creativity, sustainability, and inclusion since its founding in 1985. Horst’s contributions extended far beyond the walls of !K7. He was a steadfast advocate for the independent music sector on a global scale. He was both a Founder and the longest serving Board Member of Merlin, as well as a long serving Board Member of IMPALA Independent Music Companies Association. His tireless efforts helped strengthen and champion the value of independent music rights, setting a standard for ethical and sustainable practices that will inspire generations to come. Merlin will honor his legacy by continuing to champion the values he held dear—innovation, sustainability, and the importance of independent music.

How does independent music impact technological innovation? Merlin CEO Jeremy Sirota recently discussed this on the Music Tectonics Podcast, highlighting that "everything bubbles up from independents, and the reason why is that they’ve always been more risk takers, disruptors, maybe even, pray tell, sometimes troublemakers.” Thanks to Music Tectonics and Dmitri Vietze for hosting! Listen to Jeremy's full interview at the link below 🔗 . https://lnkd.in/dWaewH5c